(Cricket News) James Anderson has expressed that he has “no interest” in retiring from the game anytime soon, despite his age and recent poor form in the Ashes against Australia.

As he approaches his 41st birthday on Sunday, Anderson holds the record for being England’s leading wicket-taker in tests, with an impressive 690 dismissals. However, in the ongoing Ashes series, he has managed to claim only five wickets, maintaining an average of just under 75.

Anderson emphasized that he will continue to play as long as he receives the backing and support from skipper Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum. Under their guidance, he has delivered impressive performances, taking 50 wickets in 14 tests.

“People often start questioning how much time you have left as a bowler once you enter your thirties, but in the past three or four years, I’ve been bowling as well as ever,” Anderson shared with the BBC.

He continued, “I feel in complete control, my body is in good shape, and my skills are at their peak. However, the numbers, wickets, and selection matters are entirely different topics.”

Anderson added, “If Stokesy and Baz (McCullum) say, ‘You haven’t achieved the wickets we expected,’ I’d be completely fine with that. But as far as retirement is concerned, I have no plans to step back anytime soon.”

Although Anderson suffered a groin injury before the Ashes, he acknowledged experiencing a “lean patch” but remained confident that he would bounce back in the second innings of the final test, where Australia currently holds a 12-run lead over the hosts.

The Oval test presents his final opportunity to prove himself this year, as England won’t be playing red ball cricket again until their tour of India in January.

“I still have another innings to make a contribution for the team,” he added.

“I don’t believe I’m bowling poorly or losing pace, nor do I feel that my time in the team is coming to an end. I genuinely believe I can still contribute significantly to this team.”

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